How are black peppercorns formed?
Black pepper is a spice made by processing the small clustered fruits of a tropical vine.
Structure, development and life cycle
The perennial vine climbs supports and bears spike-like flower clusters. For black pepper, fruits are picked before full ripeness and dried so the outer layer darkens and wrinkles. White pepper has the ripe outer layer removed, while green pepper preserves unripe fruit by other methods. These are not Capsicum chili peppers.
Growing, uses and cautions
Warm humid frost-free conditions, organic but draining soil and a climbing support are required. Even moisture should not become waterlogging. Commercial quality depends on harvest timing, drying and storage. Culinary quantities should not be equated with concentrated extracts.
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